Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Tennessee

If you're a Tennessee resident interested in becoming a medical assistant, then you're likely already familiar with the duties typically involved with the job including filing paperwork, preparing patients for medical procedures, and working with both patients and doctors to assure that the medical process runs smoothly. If you want to be trained for this exciting new career, we've prepared this guide to give you the resources you need to find an online program that's right for you. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions within the next decade which means that once you've received your education, finding a job as a medical assistant in the state will likely be a fairly quick and seamless process.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Tennessee

Online and campus-based medical assistant programs are easy to find in Tennessee. If you're already working in the medical profession, try talking to colleagues or supervisors to see if they know of any programs that may be of interest to you. One example of a great medical assistant program available online is the Online Medical Assistant and Electronic Health Records Course available at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology. It’s always recommended to choose a medical assistant program that is fully accredited, offers the program type you want (diploma/certificate or associate’s degree), and has a high graduation rate.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Tennessee

In Tennessee, medical assistants are not required to obtain licensure or certification from state organizations in order to work in the medical field. However, earning certification through a recognized organization can help you stand out when it comes to the application process and enhance your professional qualifications.

To become a certified medical assistant in Tennessee, you can follow these general steps:

Education and Training: Complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Certification Exam: After completing your education, you may choose to take a certification exam offered by organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA. These exams assess your understanding of various medical assistant competencies, including clinical and administrative tasks.

Application Submission: Once you pass the certification exam, you can submit your application for certification to the respective organization. Follow their specific guidelines and provide any required documentation, including proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay the necessary fees as specified by the organization.

Certification Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process and meeting the certification requirements, the organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant.

While there are no specific state organizations for medical assistant certification in Tennessee, obtaining certification from nationally recognized organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA can greatly enhance your professional qualifications and increase your job prospects. These certifications are widely recognized and respected in the healthcare industry, including in Tennessee.

To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to Tennessee, you can visit the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners website or contact the Tennessee Medical Association. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in Tennessee and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.

Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in Tennessee?

A good place to start job hunting for medical assistant positions in Tennessee is by contacting medical centers and hospitals directly. In many cases, the training program you enroll in will be a great resource for you in locating these jobs. A few locations that you may try contacting in the state are Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Baptist Memorial Hospital, and TriStar Centennial Medical Center.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Tennessee?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Tennessee is $30,000 to $41,000 per year. This may be on the low or high side of the spectrum, depending on what part of the state you'll be working in, your level of education, and any certification you may hold.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Tennessee.